What is vibration white finger and HAVS?
[HAVS = hand-arm vibration syndrome; vascular component (vibration white finger — blanching, numbness, tingling in cold); neurological component (loss of sensation, reduced grip); musculoskeletal component (less common); all three components assessed separately in compensation; Stockholm Workshop Scale for staging]
What causes HAVS at work?
[Vibrating power tools: angle grinders, chainsaws, jackhammers, road drills, needle guns, sanders, concrete vibrators, compactors; industries: construction, utilities, quarrying, agriculture, shipbuilding, motor vehicle repair]
What do the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require?
[Employer must: assess vibration exposure; compare against EAV (2.5 m/s² A(8)) and ELV (5 m/s² A(8)); implement controls (anti-vibration tools, job rotation, rest breaks); provide health surveillance; inform and train workers; keep records of exposure and health surveillance]
How is a HAVS claim valued?
JCG 17th edition (hand-arm vibration syndrome): Moderate (some symptoms, continues to work with management): £14,900 to £30,490 Serious (bilateral, significant neurological or vascular impairment, affects daily life): £30,490 to £49,470 Severe (significant bilateral, prevents employment, significant disability): £49,470 to £65,350
What is the date of knowledge for a HAVS claim?
[Condition develops gradually; clock starts when claimant first knew symptoms were significant, caused by vibrating tools at work, and that employer may be responsible; typically around specialist occupational health diagnosis; importance of acting promptly after diagnosis]
What evidence supports a HAVS claim?
[Occupational health records; specialist vascular or neurological report; employer's vibration risk assessments; tool vibration data (manufacturers); health surveillance records; employment records showing years of tool use; testimonies from colleagues doing same work]
What is Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for HAVS?
[IIDB available for vibration white finger as a prescribed occupational disease (D21); minimum 14% disablement; can claim alongside civil claim; Compensation Recovery Unit may recover IIDB paid if civil settlement received]
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Can I claim for vibration white finger from using power tools at work?
Yes. If your employer did not assess or control your vibration exposure under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, and you have developed HAVS, you may have a valid claim.
How much compensation for HAVS?
Moderate HAVS typically falls in the range £14,900 to £30,490. Serious bilateral HAVS affecting daily life and work capacity can reach £49,470 or more.
What if I was exposed to vibration over many years with different employers?
Each employer may be liable for their period of exposure. Claims against multiple defendants are common in long-latency occupational disease cases.
Can I claim if I have retired?
Yes. The three-year time limit runs from the date of knowledge, not the date of exposure. Many claimants are retired at the time they receive a formal diagnosis.
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
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Sources
- Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/1093)
- Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive 2002/44/EC (implemented by above)
- Judicial College Guidelines, 17th edition (2024)
- HSE — Handarm vibration (hse.gov.uk/vibration/hav)
- Limitation Act 1980
This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.